The Honda S2000 has been around, in the United States, since model year 2000. The 2008 models represent the model's swan song--rumours are flying as to what will replace the roadster in Honda's lineup, but chances are that it won't be a model that truly continues the s2000 legacy.

I've always liked the design of this car, but never seriously considered getting one for myself. The MSRP of a new model, while a bargain compared to it's competition, is more than I'd like to spend on a car. Earlier this year, I decided to get a convertible. I tried out the VW Eos, the Mazda MX-5, and the Mercedes SLK. While all of those models are capable and fun cars, it wasn't until I got behind the wheel of an s2000 that I had that feeling of "this is it!".

I opted for a Honda Certified pre-owned model. Many s2000 owners use their cars as weekend pleasure cruisers, so low-mileage, well kept examples are plentiful on the preowned lots. The Honda CPO warranty gave me peace of mind, so the decision to get a used one over a new one was easy.

Model Year 2004 and up s2000's are known by enthusiasts as "AP2"s...taken from part of the code in the serial numbers. Earlier models have a higher redline, subtle interior and exterior differences, and smaller wheels. The overall look is very similar, though. The long, low hood houses the 240 horsepower 4-cylinder VTEC engine. The clean lines of the car's bodywork have a timeless appeal that reminds me somewhat of classic Jaguars. In my opinion, the 17" wheels on AP2 models give the car a more aggressive, sporty stance. The third brake light is mounted in a "swell" on the trunk lid--giving a spoiler-like appearance to the rear fascia. Dual exhausts finish out the rear.

You don't so much get into an s2000, it's more like putting it on. The car is low and snug. A bit of contortionism is required to get into it. The seats of my s2000 are two tone red and black leather. On any other car, I might find the combination garrish, but there's little point in being subtle with this rocket. The seats are very comfortable, with plenty of lateral support that hugs you in hard cornering. The steering wheel can't be adjusted, but I had no trouble finding a comfortable driving position.
The dash is simple but oddly laid out. The stereo is hidden behind a brushed aluminum panel, which serves to give the dash a clutter free appearance. The dash mounted audio and air conditioning controls are odd, but easily adjusted to. Not so for the rear defrost and cruise control buttons--which are hidden behind the steering column. The small, digital gauge cluster reminds me of video game, but does present all the information it needs to at a glance. The s2000's interior lacks in many of the "luxuries" most car buyers have gotten used to. The only power outlet is between the two seats--which means cords running across the console if you need to plug in a phone or portable device. The cupholders are next to worthless. Mounted in the center console, they dont accomodate most cups, and a filled cupholder gets in the way of the gear shift. There are no cubbies for coins, garage door openers, etc. There isnt even a dash mounted glovebox. All storage is between the seats in a sizable compartment.
As should be expected, the car is loud. The throaty exhaust notes, road noise, and roar of the engine, should not be looked at as negatives though. Its part of the experience.
With the top up, the car is somewhat claustrophobic, but has plenty of headroom, even for folks over 6 feet. With the top down (which happens in just a few seconds with the release of two latches and the push of a button) the car feels much larger.
Driving the s2000 is a dream. The handling on this car is unlike anything else I've ever driven. Smooth, stable cornering, even at speeds that would feel unsafe in other cars. Responsive power even in the low range. Drive it like you stole it to kick in the VTEC (which, Im ashamed to admit, Ive never done), which will unleash extra horsepower. Do yourself a favor and get used to the car on little traveled roads. There is a tendancy for fishtailing if you give it a lot of power.

*update* For the first time, from any car I've ever had, I'm getting more miles per gallon than the window sticker calls for. My window sticker had me anticipating 20 in the city and 26 on the highway. (08 stickers, using the new formula, are at 18 and 24 if memory serves)
But in mixed driving Ive been getting 26-28, and the one long trip I took the S on, with the top down, gave me just under 32 MPG. A very pleasant surprise.
Insurance costs are high. I pay about 50 percent more than I did on my Accord coupe. If you have a few tickets, you might expect to pay several hundred dollars a month just to insure this beast. The tires, z-rated performance ones that are uni-directional, and larger on the rear, are unlikely to last more than 15 thousand miles, and are expensive to replace. All worth it, in my opimion, but definitely something that you should consider before purchasing the car.
Amount Paid (US$): 24000
Condition: Used
Model Year: 2005
Model and Options: 6-speed manual roadster